Round Table China Marathons run into new rules
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Nov 12, 2025 Lai Ming, a returning guest and expert on China's running culture, dives into the exciting yet turbulent world of marathons in China. He discusses the recent regulatory changes aimed at ensuring safety and professionalism, marking a significant shift from explosive growth to stability. The conversation highlights the economic benefits of marathons for host cities and the challenges organizers face with cancellations and complaints. Ultimately, Lai highlights a cultural shift emphasizing sustainable growth over speed in the marathon industry.
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Explosive Growth Exposed Weaknesses
- China's marathon boom exploded from 390,000 participants in 2022 to about 7 million in 2024.
- Rapid growth created scale but exposed organizational and safety weaknesses nationwide.
From Elite Sport To Popular Hobby
- Lai Ming recalled discovering friends who became marathon enthusiasts a decade ago.
- He contrasted past perceptions that marathons were only for elite athletes with today's mass participation.
Prioritize Safety And Clear Governance
- Improve event organization by defining responsibilities and strengthening risk prevention.
- Prioritize safety, professional management, and clearer governance to reduce incidents and complaints.